Nitrogen reduction policy: 7 billion euros needed for reduction of animal stocks

Dutch Government Sticks to Old Plans in Nitrogen Policy

The Dutch government is sticking to old plans such as reducing livestock numbers and farm closures in their nitrogen policy. However, they want to postpone the deadline for achieving the reduction goals.

Reducing Nitrogen Emissions

To reduce nitrogen emissions, livestock numbers in the Netherlands will continue to be reduced and farms will be closed. Agriculture Minister Femke Wiersma has presented a new starting package for this. However, the deadline for achieving the reduction goals will be postponed from 2030 to 2035. Agriculture is expected to emit 42 to 46 percent less nitrogen compared to 2019. This goes against a recent court ruling by the Hague District Court on nitrogen policy. The government plans to appeal this decision.

New Purchase Programs Worth Billions

Reducing nitrogen emissions in agriculture through the reduction of livestock numbers and farm closures is not a new concept. The government plans to launch a new purchase program for agricultural businesses. Experts estimate the need to compensate farmers at up to 7 billion euros. The coalition has agreed on initially 2.2 billion euros. According to Politico, 750 million euros are allocated for those who choose to shut down animal husbandry, and 627 million euros for dairy farmers who reduce their production. Another 100 million euros are earmarked for nature restoration.

1,800 Farms to Drastically Reduce Emissions or Exit

A new development is the establishment of buffer zones of 250 meters around the nature reserves De Peel and De Veluwe. 1,800 agricultural businesses would be affected and would have to significantly reduce their emissions or even cease operations. Wirsma also plans to change the measurement of excess nitrogen - however, it is still unclear how this will happen. Other coalition members are skeptical about legal issues and Brussels' stance.

With material from AgE